
















Vivian van Blerk
1971 - 2024
Vivian van Blerk, the renowned South African-born artist, passed away peacefully in his studio outside Paris in July 2024.
Driven by a deep curiosity about the enduring and noble aspects of human nature, van Blerk’s work often revisited classical themes, infused with a contemporary sensibility. His photographs and ceramics, while rooted in tradition, were imbued with a tenderness and playfulness that defied sentimentality.
Van Blerk’s unique approach to photography involved constructing intricate scenes, often blending found objects with meticulously crafted elements. In recent years, he turned his attention to ceramics, creating sculptural works that continued to explore themes of inter-connection, love, death, meaning, and the passage of time.
A graduate of the Michaelis School of Fine Art, University of Cape Town, van Blerk's work was both smart and funny, inviting viewers to engage with his art on multiple levels. His work is held in numerous prestigious collections worldwide, and his legacy will undoubtedly endure. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family, and the global art community.
A memorial exhibition will be held in Paris in early summer 2025. Please check back for details.